The National Weather Service (NWS) in New York has put out a tornado warning for the Binghamton area, telling people to find shelter immediately. The warning was issued at 7:10 p.m. Eastern time, giving residents only a short time to react after the weather radar showed rotation typical of tornadoes. By 7:36 p.m., the warning had expired.
At 7:09 p.m., severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes and damaging winds were spotted over Lebanon, near Hamilton, moving northeast at 55 mph. The NWS stressed the importance of taking immediate action: “TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the nearest substantial shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. Heavy rain might hide this tornado. Don’t wait to see or hear the tornado. TAKE COVER NOW!”
The storms were predicted to be near Hamilton and Poolville by 7:15 p.m. and near Waterville and Bridgewater by 7:25 p.m. The warning highlighted the dangers: “Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”
While the tornado warning expired, several other warnings were still active, including a severe thunderstorm warning, a flash flood warning, a severe weather statement, and an excessive heat warning. Winds were gusting up to 70 miles per hour, and penny-sized hail was reported. Despite the severe weather, no power outages were reported in Broome County, where Binghamton is located, as of 8:03 p.m.
The severe thunderstorm warning also warned of significant tree damage and potential damage to mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings. Areas affected include Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, Falls, Dunmore, Kingston, Plains, Carbondale, Old Forge, Pittston, and Archbald.
Meteorologists advised residents to remain vigilant for possible tornadoes, even after the initial warning expired. “Stay alert for a possible tornado! Tornadoes can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. If you see a tornado, go immediately to the basement or a small central room in a sturdy building. For your protection, move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building,” the alert said.
Also Read:
- Weather Alert: Tornadoes and Severe Storms Threaten Midwest on Monday
- Overflow Action Day: Chicago Residents Advised to Limit Water Use Due to Severe Weather
The NWS continues to watch the situation and will provide updates as needed. Residents should stay informed and ready for any sudden changes in the weather.
